Crystal Lake Salvation Army welcomes new officer

CRYSTAL LAKE — The new corps officer for The Salvation Army in Crystal Lake has only been in town for about a week, but she said she's already eager to jump in and get started.

Capt. Carol Lewis was welcomed into the community Tuesday at a luncheon attended by Salvation Army employees, volunteers, and partners.

For Lewis, the position is a welcome change from her former position at the Central Territorial Headquarters.

"This is the frontline of the Salvation Army's ministry," she said. "That's what I'm excited about. … Before, I was like three times removed."

Before her seven years serving at the USA Central Territory Headquarters, Lewis spent a couple years serving as corps officer in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

In the short time she's been in Crystal Lake, she said she's already noticed a supportive spirit within the community.

"There's clearly a legacy of coming together to support the [Salvation] Army."

As corps officer, Lewis is responsible for all aspects of the ministry, according to Linda West in community relations.

West added hosting the celebratory luncheon was a way to start introducing Lewis to the various people she'll be working with as officer. There's typically a farewell celebration for outgoing officers as well.

"You're always sad to see the former officers go," West said, "but at the same time, every individual has different qualities to offer."

Lewis was commissioned as an officer with her late husband, Scott, in 2005.

She was born and raised by parents who were both officers, and two of her four siblings are also officers.

Lewis attended the University of Nebraska Omaha, Olivette Nazarene University and is completing a bachelor's in Business at Nazarene Bible College in Colorado Springs, Colorado, according to a press release from the Salvation Army.

Lewis said she's looking forward to getting into the work, starting with the Salvation Army's back-to-school efforts.

"I can start meeting the kids, the parents and the volunteers," she said. "The need is great this year."